FR 2025-00607

The document in question is a notice regarding a closed meeting of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, scheduled for March 24, 2025. The purpose of this meeting is to review and evaluate grant applications for clinical research centers focused on preventing stillbirth. Such meetings are typically closed under specific provisions to protect confidential information and personal data.

Summary of the Document

The notice announces that the committee meeting is closed to the public in accordance with legislative provisions. The document specifies legal references such as sections 552b(c)(4) and 552b(c)(6) of Title 5 U.S.C., indicating that the meeting will cover confidential information like trade secrets, personal data associated with grant applications, and potentially patentable material. The meeting will be conducted virtually, highlighting the involvement of committee members and professionals from the institute. The document provides contact details for Dr. Luis E. Dettin for further inquiries.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from this notice. Firstly, the document references multiple legal codes without offering explanations, which may be confusing to individuals unacquainted with legal jargon. This lack of clarity could lead to questions about the need to close the meeting to the public.

Additionally, the notice includes references to various Federal Domestic Assistance Program numbers without specifying their connection to the meeting. This lack of clarity might perplex readers unfamiliar with these programs.

Another concern is the choice of a virtual meeting format without mentioning any accessibility provisions for the public or stakeholders who might be interested in the process or results of the meeting. This raises potential concerns about transparency and access for individuals who might not have the technology or means to engage virtually.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

For the general public, the decision to close the meeting may evoke mixed reactions. While the closure ensures that sensitive information and privacy are maintained, it may also lead to concerns about the potential lack of transparency and public involvement in government-related activities.

Specific stakeholders, such as individuals or organizations interested in stillbirth prevention or related research funding, might feel a direct impact. While the closed nature of the meeting could safeguard proprietary data, it might disadvantage those seeking insight into the decision-making processes or the allocation of resources.

By addressing these concerns, the office could potentially enhance public trust. More detailed explanations regarding the necessity for closure and clearer connections to the referenced programs could demystify the process for stakeholders and the general public, promoting a sense of openness while balancing the need for confidentiality.

Overall, while the notice fulfills its legal obligation to inform the public about the meeting, it leaves room for improvement in transparency and accessibility—matters that, if addressed, could positively affect public perception and stakeholder engagement.